AutoCodes – Pontiac – B0020 Pontiac

B0020 Pontiac Code - Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2

Quick Answer

During a side or frontal crash of sufficient force the inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) will allow current to flow through the deployment loop in order to deploy an air bag or pretensioner. Common causes include Faulty Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag, Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag harness is open or shorted, Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: B0020 Pontiac indicates Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag, Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag harness is open or shorted, Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 2,326

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 09, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0020 Pontiac Description

During a side or frontal crash of sufficient force the inflatable restraint Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) will allow current to flow through the deployment loop in order to deploy an air bag or pretensioner. There are 2 shorting bars that will short together control circuits when the connector is disconnected. This will help to prevent unwanted deployment of the air bag or pretensioner during servicing.

OBDII Code B0020 Pontiac - Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 - AutoCodes.com — B0020 Pontiac Code - Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0020 Pontiac?

Faulty Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag
Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag harness is open or shorted
Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)

How to Fix the DTC B0020 Pontiac?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

B0020:01 Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 Short to Battery
B0020:02 Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 Short to Ground
B0020:04 Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 Open
B0020:0D Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 High Resistance
B0020:0E Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 Low Resistance

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0020 Pontiac code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the B0020 Pontiac code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0020 Pontiac code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0020 Pontiac code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Precautions for SRS “AIR BAG” and “SEAT BELT PRE-TENSIONER” Service

Never probe the electrical connectors on air bag, side air curtain modules or seat belts.
Never disassemble or tamper with safety belt buckle/retractor pretensioners, adaptive load limiting retractors, safety belt inflators, or probe the electrical connectors.
Do not use electrical test equipment to check SRS circuits unless instructed to in this Service Manual.
Before servicing the SRS, turn ignition switch OFF, disconnect both battery cables and wait at least 3 minutes. For approximately 3 minutes after the cables are removed, it is still possible for the air bag and seat belt pre-tensioner to deploy. Therefore, do not work on any SRS connectors or wires until at least 3 minutes have passed.

Failure to follow this instruction may result in the accidental deployment of these modules, which increases the risk of serious personal injury or death.

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B0020 Pontiac Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B0020 in a Pontiac related to the Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2?

The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and a potential loss of functionality of the passenger-side airbag.

2. What are some possible causes of OBDII code B0020 in a Pontiac?

Possible causes of this code include a faulty passenger airbag module, damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag system, or a problem with the airbag control module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B0020 in my Pontiac?

Diagnosis typically involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the specific fault code, inspecting the airbag system wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the components for proper functionality.

4. Is it safe to drive my Pontiac with the OBDII code B0020 present?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the airbag warning light on, as it indicates a potential issue with the airbag system's functionality. It's best to have the problem diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.

5. Can I reset the OBDII code B0020 in my Pontiac without fixing the underlying issue?

While you can clear the fault code with a diagnostic scanner, the airbag warning light is likely to come back on if the root cause of the problem is not addressed. It's important to fix the issue to ensure the airbag system is working correctly.

6. What are some repair tips for fixing OBDII code B0020 in a Pontiac?

Repair tips may include checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag system, replacing the faulty passenger airbag module, or reprogramming the airbag control module if necessary.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B0020 in a Pontiac?

The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the labor rates in your area. It's best to consult with a qualified mechanic or dealership for an accurate estimate.

8. Can OBDII code B0020 in a Pontiac be a safety concern?

Yes, OBDII code B0020 related to the Passenger Instrument Panel Air Bag Deployment Loop Stage 2 can be a safety concern as it indicates a potential problem with the passenger-side airbag system, which may affect its deployment in the event of a crash.

9. Are there any recalls or technical service bulletins related to OBDII code B0020 in Pontiac vehicles?

It's recommended to check with your local Pontiac dealership or visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to see if there are any recalls or technical service bulletins related to this specific OBDII code in your Pontiac model.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code B0020 from occurring in my Pontiac?

Regular maintenance and inspections of the airbag system, including checking for any signs of damage to wiring or connectors, can help prevent issues like OBDII code B0020 from occurring. If you notice any warning lights or abnormalities, have the system checked by a professional promptly.